Thompson got caught up in the mess after allegedly returning home in the early hours of January 22 – after a night on the town with friends. Ms O’Brien was staying at the house that night.

“Joel Thompson has been stood down by the club and will not participate in any club activities until this matter has been finalised by the appropriate authorities,” Furner confirmed.

“Until this time he will not be training or playing with the club and a decision on his future with the Raiders will be made at a later date.”

Facts produced by the police in court allege that Thompson and his partner began arguing and his girlfriend felt a smash to her right eye and also heard a loud crack as his hand connected with her face.

Thompson was allowed bail, but is not allowed to interact with Ms O’Brien. He will appear in court on February 25.

This latest off-field incident will surely frustrate the NRL, with the 2009 season set to get underway and already a sprinkling of ugly incidents have flared up around the game.